Breed Profile

The Jack Russell Terrier breed is a type of working terrier. Since their beginning, in the early 1800’s, the Jack Russell was bred strictly for hunting. The JRT is a unique, versatile working Terrier. He is an intelligent, loyal and affectionate dog, keen, alert and always ready to go. He is also a match for any cat in his ability to catch mice.

The JRT is adaptable, however, he was bred to be a hunting dog and, as such, does require plenty of outdoor activity and exercise. His unique personality makes him desirable to many, but city or apartment living or a sedate lifestyle does not meet the dog’s needs.

It should also be noted that Jack Russells can be aggressive toward other dogs and small animals including cats, gerbils, hamsters, guinea pigs, etc. The breed is fearless and known to take on an adversary twice or more his size.

His coat may be smooth or rough, white, white with black or tan markings, or white with a combination of these colours.

The Jack Russell is a happy, bold, energetic dog with a suprisingly gentle and kind nature.

Health Issues

If you are considering the adoption of a Jack Russell Terrier, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy’s parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main General Information page.)

Additional Information

Working Dogs — The Working Dogs section of the Canada’s Guide to Dogs website provides information and listings of organizations that are involved in various dog jobs, such as Guide Dogs, Therapy Dogs, Police Dogs, Protection Dogs, and much more.

*NOTE 1: CHIC – The Canine Health Information Center “is a database of consolidated health screening results from multiple sources. Co-sponsored by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and the American Kennel Club (AKC) Canine Health Foundation, CHIC works with parent clubs to identify health screening protocols appropriate for individual breeds. Dogs tested in accordance with the parent club established requirements, that have their results registered and made available in the public domain are issued CHIC numbers.” To learn more, visit: www.caninehealthinfo.org

*NOTE 2: The Fédération Cynologique International (FCI) is the World Canine Organization, which includes 91 members and contract partners (one member per country) that each issue their own pedigrees and train their own judges. The FCI recognizes 344 breeds, with each being the “property” of a specific country. The “owner” countries write the standards of these breeds in co-operation with the Standards and Scientific Commissions of the FCI, and the translation and updating are carried out by the FCI. The FCI is not a breed registry nor does it issue pedigrees.